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Mak Honours Governor Tumusiime Mutebile with Multibillion Complex

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(L-R) Mrs. Elizabeth Gabona, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, Hon. Ruhakana-Rugunda, Prof. Emmanuel Mutebile and wife Mrs. Betty Mutebile arrive at the Main Hall.The Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda on 27th October 2015, laid the foundation stone for the construction of a multi-billion complex in honour of the Governor of Bank of Uganda, Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile at Makerere University Private Sector Forum grounds. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda represented the President of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile also unveiled the artistic impression for the Mutebile Centre of Excellence at the same grounds. The Centre of Excellence, estimated at USD 20 million is a tribute to Prof. Mutebile’s commitment to national and international development. The Mutebile Centre of Excellence for Private Sector Development will be a hub of information, research, innovation and knowledge transfer. To be developed with the aim of promoting projects meant to enhance community development and job creation, the centre will also house Prof. Mutebile’s biography including profiles and documentaries of his life achievements as well as his writings and publication among others.

The distinguished Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile Chair in Monetary Policy, Banking and Finance will be hosted by Makerere University School of Economics under the College of Business and Management Science (COBAMS). The Chair estimated at USD 5 million will be occupied by a distinguished Professor with a task of building Programmes and mobilising resources to sustain and uphold it. According to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, the first Chair holder will be identified and accredited by Professor Tumusiime Mutebile.Former Vice Chancellors of Makerere University-Prof. George Kirya(Left) and Prof. Livingstone Luboobi (Right), Centre is the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

The Vice Chancellor described the Mutebile Chair and Centre of Excellence at Makerere University as a golden opportunity for the institution to associate with a person of broadly valued expertise and rich ideas in monetary Policy reforms, banking and finance. He added that Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile’s rich Knowledge shall widely be shared in academia to create a positive impact on socio-economic transformation of Uganda. Ag. Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Dr. Eria Hisali reading the Citation of Excellence .

“His knowledge and expertise can be harnessed to further inform policy formulation not only in Uganda but the region at large, as we strive to increase socio-economic development towards attaining the national Vision 2040. Makerere University therefore takes the pride in celebrating Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile’s prominence and reputation at both the national and international levels,” he said.

In his speech read by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, applauded Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile as a brave man who embodies the true spirit of Nationalism with a rich history of providing exceptional service and being true to his word. He commended Makerere University for immortalizing Professor Mutebile through the Endowed Chair and Centre of Excellence.

“This is a landmark occasion as we count down to the centenary celebrations of Makerere University in 2022. For it is Makerere University that has produced many pan-Africanist Presidents and Prime Ministers in addition to Professor Tumusiime-Mutebile. I am proud of the breakthroughs the University has made in Science and Technology and I encourage you to stay on course to advance your vision in illuminating Makerere University’s capabilities on the global scene,” he said.The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Okello Ogwang reading the Oratory of Excellence.

“I also commend all the development partners who have invested in the development of the education at Makerere University since its inception. Makerere has seen a series of developments, innovations andreforms. I salute the partnerships that have been very vital in building capacity,” he added.

As part of the day’s proceedings, the Ag. Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Dr. Eria Hisali read the Citation of Excellence detailing Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile’s academic excellence at all levels, illustrious career as well as his tremendous contribution to national development.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Okello Ogwang highlighted Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile academic and life achievements in the Oratory of Excellence. “In spite of his heavy commitments in the fiscal industry, Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile has demonstrated his love for promoting education by participating in actual teaching and supporting various educational institutions within and outside Uganda,” Dr. Okello Ogwang remarked. He also applauded Prof. Tumusiime Mutebile for winning numerous honours, awards and tributes both locally and internationally. Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile seated in the symbolic Chair of Monetary Policy, Banking and Finance

Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile was installed on a symbolic Chair by the Makerere University Acting Chancellor Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu amidst applause from Makerere University staff, Bank of Uganda team, family, friends and well-wishers. In his acceptance speech, Prof. Tumusiime Mutebile said holding the Chair of Monetary Policy, Banking and Finance, has opened another window of opportunity for him to serve Makerere University and the people of Uganda.

“Uganda has made impressive strides in both the economic and political areas during the last 30 years. We have overcome those painful days of our history and moved on. I am proud to have been associated with the policies that have brought about the restoration of the economy,” he said.

Commenting on the historic moment and installation, Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile who was also a Guild President in 1972 commended Makerere University-his alma mater-for the achievements over the years  when he said, “Today and particularly this occasion, presents one of the happiest moments in my life. This is not because distinguished honors are being bestowed on me. It is an occasion to recognize and celebrate the many things that Makerere University, the Government of Uganda and the Makerere University Private Sector Forum have achieved over the last 45 years since I was a student at Makerere University. It is also an occasion to thank all those at Makerere University and in the Private Sector Forum for conceiving this new initiative of the Mutebile Chair and Mutebile Center of Excellence.”The Chairperson Makerere University Council, Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem

According to the Chairperson Makerere University Council, Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem, plans for the establishment of Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile’s Chair in Monetary Policy, Banking and Finance and the Mutebile Chair of Excellence started way back in 2007 when it was first conceived by Makerere University Private Sector- Forum (MUPSF). The idea was approved by the University Council with the aim of bridging the University-Industry divide in socio-economic development.

Several high ranking officials attended the colourful ceremony in the Makerere University Main Hall including Director for Higher Technical, Vocational, Education and Training Mrs. Elizabeth Gabona, who represented the Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Sports, Hon. Jessica Alupo; former Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Maria Kiwanuka and her husband- Honan Kiwanuka; a delegation from Bank of Uganda led by the Deputy Governor- Dr. Louis Kasekende; former Chairperson of Makerere University Council Hon. Mathew Rukikaire, Former Chairperson of Makerere University Council, Hon. Mathew Rukikaireformer Vice Chancellors of Makerere University-Prof. George Kirya and Prof. Livingstone Luboobi, Makerere University Management and staff, family members of Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile, and students.

About Prof. Tumusiime-Mutebile

Born on 27th January 1949 in Kabale District– South Western Uganda, Professor Emmanuel Tumusiime Mutebile Kirenga Baryabota joined Makerere University in July 1970 for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Political Science. He was later elected Students’ Guild President which eventually brought him in conflict with the then hostile political environment under President Idi Amin Dada. He faced persecution and had to flee the country to complete his Bachelor’s degree course at Durham University, UK where he graduated with a Second Class Honors Upper Division in June 1974.

The Prime Minister Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda,  Prof. Mutebile and other officials after unveiling the foundation stone for Mutebile Centre of Excellence.

His undergraduate dissertation was outstanding that it won the first prize in Economics at Durham University. Subsequently, he successfully completed the first year of his postgraduate studies in Economics in June 1975 and embarked on Doctoral studies by research at Oxford University. As part of his PhD studies, Mutebile conducted field work in Tanzania while at the same time teaching at the University of Dar-es-Salaam. However, the outbreak of Uganda`s Liberation War of 1979 interrupted his studies after which, he returned to Uganda and started on the process of rebuilding the then shattered economy. On 14th December 2006, he was appointed Honorary Professor by Makerere University.

His academic excellence is attested by:

  • A Tutorial Fellow at Balliol and St. Peter`s College, Oxford University, 1974 – 1977.
  • A Visiting Lecturer at Furnham Centre for International Briefing – 1977.
  • A lecturer of Industrial Economics at the University of Dar-es-Salaam 1977 – 1979.
  • Several books authored in the fields of economic reforms, monetary policy and banking.
  • Published pamphlets and booklets in the fields of banking and fiscal reforms.
  • Contributed numerous articles in periodicals, magazines and newspapers.
  • Countless Radio and TV interviews

Article by: Mak Public Relations Office

 

 

Elias Tuhereze

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First-Year Student’s Joining Instructions 2025/26

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Dear Students; Class of 2025/2026
I am very delighted to welcome you to Makerere University. You are joining a Premier University and I hope you all are excited to start your new academic journey. We would like to first congratulate all of you for successfully overcoming the many challenges you have all faced, from completing high school to choosing a university and a study program and the extensive delays in the admission process you experienced.

As you are about to begin one of the most exciting times in your life, you should acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievements so far. I am aware that as a fresher, you are filled with hope and ambition, and I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the road that has brought you here. I know that you have worked hard and overcome many obstacles
to reach this point. So, take a moment to savor this achievement and be proud of yourselves.

Now, as you step into the next phase of your lives, I want to remind you that this is a time of growth and exploration. You will face new challenges, make new friends, and gain experiences that will shape you into the person you will become. This is the time to embrace new opportunities, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing.

I also want to emphasise the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. These are the qualities that will help you overcome any obstacle and succeed in your endeavors. Remember to keep your focus on your goals and work towards them with determination.
I encourage you to approach your studies with a growth mindset. This means that you believe that your abilities can be developed through hard work and perseverance. Remember that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

Professor Buyinza Mukadasi (PhD)
Academic Registrar

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Transform Ivory Tower into Impact Tower – First-ever CEOs’ Summit

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Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga (4th Right), Hon. Balaam Barugahara (4th Left), Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Rear: 3rd Left), and Mr. George Turyamureeba (3rd Right) with Members of Management and stakeholders at the First Ever Alumni CEOs Summit on 2nd September 2025. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the Makerere University Convocation (MUC), has hosted the first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. The historic event brought together alumni, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and stakeholders in a distinguished assembly aimed at re-imagining the university’s role in national and continental transformation.

The Convocation, which serves as a critical forum for foresight and life-transformational dialogue, unveiled five transformative points carefully crafted to transform Makerere from a symbolic “ivory tower” into an “impact tower” that influences the country and the world more than ever before.

Government Endorsement and Call to Action

The Chief Guest, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, was represented at the event by the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. She conveyed warm greetings from H.E. the President of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.

She commended the Convocation for convening under the summit under a significant and timely theme: “Exploring the Opportunities for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Value Creation for Accelerated Socio-Economic Integration and Development of Sub-Saharan Africa.”

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga.

She described the summit as not just a gathering but a journey and a call to action, urging academia, industry, and government to align efforts with Uganda’s and Africa’s transformation priorities.

Framing her remarks around the World Bank’s guiding principles—Trust, Humility, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Knowledge—she explained:

  • “Trust must be built between government, academia, and business… the gathering reflects the trust in CEOs and investors to walk this journey together.”
  • “Humility requires listening and learning, recognizing that no single institution has all the answers.”
  • “Inclusion reminds us that no youth, woman, or marginalized group should be left behind in transformation.”
  • “Collaboration is the currency of progress, necessary for solving complex challenges across sectors.”
  • “Knowledge remains our greatest asset, with Makerere University demonstrating its importance in moving from ivory towers to communities to transform lives.”
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Current and Former Guild Leaders including Mr. Wilbrod Owor (CEO, Uganda Bankers Association) pose for a group photo with dignitaries.

She then unveiled a “massive transformation purpose”, commissioning five working teams led by CEOs and investors. The teams, nominated lead persons, and their respective objectives included:

  1. From Ivory Tower to Impact Tower – Dr. Patricia Ojangole (UDB) with Patrick Ayota (NSSF), translating research into market-ready innovations.
  2. Diaspora Dividend vs Brain Drain – Jennifer Bamuturaki (Uganda Airlines) with Michael Mugabi (Housing Finance Bank), harnessing diaspora capital, skills, and mentorship.
  3. Intergenerational Knowledge Bridges – Fabian Kasi (Centenary Bank) with Ajay Kumar (Quality Chemicals), institutionalizing mentorship and reverse mentorship.
  4. Climate and Infrastructure Leadership – Proscovia Nabbanja (UNOC) with Silver Mugisha (NWSC), anchoring research in energy security, green transition, and infrastructure.
  5. Pan-African Digital and AI Advantage – Sylvia Mulinge (MTN Uganda) with Mumba Kalifungwa (Stanbic Bank), positioning Makerere as Africa’s digital and AI hub.

She pledged full government support, noting that the teams would convene in the Office of the President. “This summit is not ceremonial but a covenant,” she stressed.

The Minister’s Reflection

Hon. Balaam Barugahara, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, emphasized that the summit was not a party but a process of transformation.

Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Balaam Barugahara gestures.

Drawing from personal experience, he recalled joining Makerere in 2000 and completing his degree in seven years due to balancing work, hustling for fees, and studying. He praised the university’s role in shaping his success and highlighted recent developments such as the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall and revamping the Main and Western gates, as milestones that have enhanced Makerere’s image. He equally applauded the curbing of staff and student unrest.

He noted that the summit aimed to facilitate networking, mentorship, career opportunities, and university development, signalling collective commitment to Uganda’s transformation.

Council’s Vision: A Legacy Re-imagined

Representing Makerere University Council Chairperson Ms. Lorna Magara, Prof. Sarah Ssali described the summit as a “historic alumni CEO investor round table” and a reaffirmation of Makerere’s role in Africa’s development. She described the university as a “cradle of leadership, innovation and resilience”, noting that the gathering’s objectives included fostering partnerships, showcasing research, launching a fundraising drive, and strengthening alumni engagement. Prof. Ssali emphasized that alumni relations must go beyond occasional financial contributions during events, to continuous communication and genuine relationships. “This summit marks the start of a journey, not just an isolated event,” she reechoed.

Prof. Sarah Ssali. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali.

Vice Chancellor on Unlocking Makerere’s Potential

Reflecting on the theme of his bid for the Office of Vice Chancellor, “Unlocking the Potential of Makerere University,” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted that while many only celebrate the absence of strikes, behind the calmness is a vibrant transformation.

He highlighted Makerere’s alumni strength, with over 20,000 CEOs globally, and underscored their contributions to Uganda’s economy, governance, health, sports, and research. “What would Uganda do without Makerere?” he pondered. Prof. Nawangwe quickly added that the moment was ripe for Makerere to collaborate more with diaspora alumni so as to tap into fast-evolving niches such as blockchain.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Convocation’s Strategic Role

MUC Chairperson CPA George Mugabi Turyamureeba outlined the Convocation’s mission to support the university’s growth and well-being. He highlighted innovations such as the Convocation House, the annual luncheon for first-class graduates and their parents, mentorship programs, and the MUC SACCO as initiatives that his team had established and promoted during the term so far. The Chairperson nevertheless urged the CEOs present to enable the Convocation have greater impact collaborating on existing as well as envisaged projects such as the Convocation Innovation Centre.

CPA George Turyamureeba. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CPA George Turyamureeba.

Adding her voice, Vice Chairperson Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto urged participants—described as “movers and shakers” of Uganda’s economy—to ensure that their decisions today would be celebrated by future generations.

CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CPA George Turyamureeba (Right) and Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto (2nd Right) and members of the Convocation Team.

Keynote Address: The Journey’s Just Began

In his keynote, Dr. Peter Kimbowa, Founder and Board Chair of the CEO Summit and Makerere alumnus, congratulated his alma mater on the initiative and reaffirmed the Convocation’s strategic role.

He emphasized that the Round Table Summit should not be seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing journey, echoing American Football Player Jalen Hurts’ mantra: “There’s no arrival. Only the journey.” Dr. Kimbowa defined the Convocation as a community of leaders, alumni, and faculty united by heritage and vision. He described it as a bridge connecting:

  • The past to the future,
  • Business and industry to academia, and
  • Learning to market needs.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Peter Kimbowa.

He stressed that the Convocation’s ultimate goal was to transform Makerere into a self-sustaining engine of innovation, opportunity, and national transformation. Drawing on corporate insights, he challenged participants to always ask “what is the next opportunity?” and warned against complacency. He unpacked the massive transformation purpose structured around five working teams which MUC has developed, whereby corporate chief executives from Uganda are called upon to lead collaboration with the university. He highlighted the importance of mobilizing talent to connect with successful Ugandan alumni, underscoring the need for local CEOs to harness talent in the diaspora. He emphasized deliberate action, mobilization of global alumni talent, and collaboration between CEOs and the university to sustain transformation

Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of Management from Left to Right: Mr. Paul Agaba-Procurement and Disposal Unit, Mr. Simon Kizito-Deputy University Secretary, Prof. Robert Wamala-Director Research Innovations and Partnerships, and Prof. Ruth Nalumaga-University Librarian.

Panel Discussions and Triple Helix Framework

The day’s panel discussion featured Mr. Samuel Mwogeza (Executive Director, Stanbic Bank), Mr. Peter Sibukule (Headmaster, Busoga College Mwiri), Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba (Petroleum Authority of Uganda), and Ms. Grace Cherotich.

Mr. Mwogeza stressed the need to commercialize university prototypes and ideas. He explained that banks like Stanbic use their networks to strengthen innovators’ business cases, preparing them for market entry. Mr. Sibukule on the other hand called for transformation of mindsets right from secondary school level so that students are well primed to communicate, collaborate, uphold integrity and good work attitudes over qualifications in the marketplace. Mr. Irumba highlighted efforts by the PAU to create more opportunities for Ugandan entities to get involved in the oil and gas sector thanks to gaps highlighted by a study undertaken by the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). Ms. Cherotich on the other hand invited CEOs to take interest in research outputs of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and reassured the audience of the Convocation’s readiness to provide a trusted platform for engagement with industry.

Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panelists from Left to Right: Ms. Grace Cherotich Ruto, Mr. Samuel Mwogeza, Mr. Peter Sibukule and Mr. Clovice Bright Irumba with Moderator-Dr. William Tayeebwa.

Contributing to the day’s discussion, Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, Executive Director of the Uganda Vice Chancellors’ Forum (UVF), reminded the audience of the “Triple Helix” model and it’s underlying policy frameworks that in the recent past guided collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector. He observed Uganda’s lack of a robust framework, and called for policies that tie tax incentives to university support by corporations and other business entities.

Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo. Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo.

Proceedings

The inaugural edition of the summit was moderated by Dr. Tayeebwa William from the Department of Journalism and Communication who doubles as Managing Editor Makerere University Press and Dr. Viola Karungi from the Department of Performing Arts and Film (PAF).

Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right). Makerere University Convocation (MUC) first-ever CEOs/Investors’ Round Table Summit, 2nd September 2025, Convocation House, Edge Road, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Viola Karungi (Left) and Dr. William Tayeebwa (Right).

The PAF team took charge of the leading the anthems and day’s entertainment, which included a poetic presentation of the Makerere University Anthem.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Admission Lists -Disability and District Quota Schemes 2025/26

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The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released the admission list of candidates admitted under the Disability and District Quota Schemes with Government sponsorship 2025/26 Academic Year.

Kindly follow the links below to access the lists:-

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